Roger James Maggs

Nov 18,1930 - Apr 14, 2024

With sadness, we announce the passing of our dear father and grandfather, Roger, at Lakeridge Health Oshawa. The son of Constance and Percy Maggs, Roger was born in Wetaskiwin, Alberta. He leaves behind his brother Stanley, children Jocelyn, Greg and Valerie, and grandchildren Madeline, Elizabeth, Leslie, Elliott, Natalie and Connor. He was predeceased by his beloved wife Joan, his son Barry and his grandson Alexander.

Roger was an Anglican minister, ordained in 1956. He served in several parishes in Edmonton, then in Langley and Port Coquitlam BC. In 1972 he came to Ontario to further his education in pastoral counselling, studying at the former Queen St Mental Health Centre for 2 years. He then took a position at the Oshawa General Hospital as their first ever full time chaplain. Eventually, he returned to parish life as the minister of St. Matthews in Oshawa and after retirement he was the Honorary Assistant at St. John’s in Whitby.

Roger was a born athlete and singer. He played almost every sport he could in high school and university. He started singing from a young age in church choirs. Before going to divinity school at Emmanuel College in Saskatoon, he studied engineering at the U of A in Edmonton. A lifelong golfer,he continued to golf until his mid eighties when his vision was affected by a stroke. This was a passion he passed down to his sons and grandsons. . His lovely tenor voice was a great asset to his ministry and he continued to sing in the St John’s choir until Covid ‘s arrival. His was an active and busy life.

In their retirement Joan and Roger travelled extensively; several times leading tour groups to the Passion Play at Oberammergau. They were very active in church life and they were part of the 420 Golden Wing at the Oshawa Airport where Dad told “clean” jokes and led singsongs. For many years he ran their annual golf tournament. He also served as the secretary of the pastoral education association and sang in several choirs including the one at St Johns. Mom and Dad were able to remain in their own home into their 90’s but after mom’s passing, Dad moved to the Village of Taunton Mills where he spent his last years in reasonably good health, until the past few months. We thank the staff there for their care.

Funeral and interment of ashes to be held at St John’s Whitby in late June, date and time to be confirmed.

In lieu of flowers, donations to St.Johns would be welcomed.